One idea could be to focus on Gohan's internal struggle during the Cell Games. Maybe he's doubting his abilities even more than shown in the original, and it's through his friends' and family's words of encouragement that he finally finds his resolve.
In fanfiction, Gohan could have a secret power that he discovers during the Cell Games. This power could be related to his Saiyan heritage in a new and unexpected way, like being able to tap into an ancient Saiyan ability that no one else knew about. It could completely change the course of the fight against Cell.
In this fanfiction, Gohan and Videl might have an interaction where Videl tries to understand Gohan's Saiyan heritage. Gohan could explain it to her, and this could create a deeper connection between them. They could also have a moment where they work together to find a weakness in Cell. Videl's human perspective might give Gohan an idea that he hadn't thought of before.
In a fanfiction centered around Gohan's field trip to the Cell Games, there are so many possibilities. The other Z - fighters could be involved in different ways. For example, Goku might give Gohan some tips on how to handle the situation without revealing too much to his classmates. Vegeta could be there, grumbling about having to deal with a bunch of kids around during a potential battle. And Gohan himself would be in a tough spot, trying to enjoy the field trip as a kid but also being aware of the danger that could erupt at any moment. He might even use this as an opportunity to teach his classmates some valuable lessons about courage and self - sacrifice.
Well, in this fanfiction, Gohan and Videl could have a really intense moment. Maybe Gohan shows off his amazing power during the Cell Games in a way that makes Videl fall for him even more. She might be in awe of his strength and determination.
If Gohan died in the Cell Games in fanfiction, it would be a game-changer. It could trigger new plotlines and character developments. Maybe Vegeta would have a change of heart or new allies would emerge to help the Z Fighters.
The story would likely take a very dark turn. Other characters might step up and try to fill Gohan's role, but it would be a huge challenge. It could also change the outcome of the Cell Games completely.
One possibility in the 'Gohan Trains After Cell Games' fanfiction is that Gohan is training not just for physical strength but also for mental strength. He has seen the horrors of the Cell Games and realizes that a strong mind is as important as a strong body. So he might be doing meditation - like training, learning to control his emotions better in battle. He could also be training to sense ki more effectively, which would give him an edge in combat against stronger opponents in the future.
In this fanfiction, if Gohan dies in the Cell Games, perhaps the story could focus on how the other characters cope with the loss. For example, Chi - Chi could become a more hardened character, vowing revenge on Cell or any other threats. Piccolo might take on a more fatherly role to Goten, trying to train him to be as strong as Gohan was. And the Earth might be in a state of mourning, which could attract new villains who see it as a time of weakness.